13th Chime is a cult post-punk band hailing from the market town of Haverhill in Suffolk, England. The group, which originally formed in 1980, quickly garnered a dedicated following with their unique blend of dark, gothic soundscapes and punk energy. The original line-up comprised Mick Hand (vocals), Ricki Cook (guitar), Gary O'Connor (bass), and Terry Taylor (drums). They were known for their haunting tracks that fused moody bass lines, stark drum patterns, and angular guitar riffs, which together created an atmosphere of brooding intensity emblematic of the early '80s post-punk scene.
Despite their initial short tenure and the fact that they disbanded in the early 1980s, 13th Chime left an indelible mark on the underground music scene, influencing later gothic rock and darkwave artists. Their music was characterized by haunting lyrical themes and deathrock aesthetics, which can be witnessed in their limited vinyl releases and live performances that were both mesmerizing and confrontational. The rekindled interest in post-punk in the 21st century saw 13th Chime gaining new admirers, leading to the release of several compilations including "The Lost Album," which brought unreleased tracks to light, "The Complete Discography," and "The Singles: 1981-1983," which presented a comprehensive collection of their work. The band’s resurfacing in the 2010s, including the "Part Time Punks Session" and other singles like "Substance," "Baby Jane," and "Noir," continues to inspire and captivate listeners, cementing their legacy as pioneers of the post-punk genre.
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